What is our position on this bill?
We are in support of this bill because we believe it would relieve financial burdens for families who have children who are diagnosed with autism. By having private health insurance companies take on the responsibility of providing support to these children, it would save the government and taxpayers’ money. As of right now there is a waiting list to receive funding from the government, so it could be years until a family obtains any type of support from them. In the mean time, individual families who have a child with autism are paying out of pocket for medical bills and other special treatments. If private insurance companies decide to cover this condition under their policies, it would be cheaper for families because they would only be responsible for premiums and co-pays.
What is our action plan?
- Email and send letters to key stakeholders and state legislators.
- Provide information, references, and links about ethical concerns on the internet via our blog.
- Network with autism organizations and coalitions within the state.
- Support the autism organizations in Virginia and explore their resources.
According to a research study in the Official Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, “Childhood autism is associated with a substantial loss of annual household income. This likely places a significant burden on families in the face of additional out-of-pocket expenditures.” This reiterates the need for private insurance companies to cover autism expenditures. In effort to make this happen it is important to carry out our action plan in a timely manner while the bill is still active.
Who are the key stakeholders?
- children with autism
- their families
- private insurance companies
- the government
- healthcare workers
Who are our Legislators?
Congressman Randy Forbes supported H.Res. 1106, a resolution expressing support for the designation of April 2008 as “National Autism Awareness Month.” It also expresses support for devoting new resources to research into the causes and treatment of autism. In addition, this resolution supports improving training and support for individuals with autism and their care-takers.
Congressman Bobby Scott is another advocate for health care improvements, which include research, preventative care, and supporting lower income families.
It's good to know that some groups are taking action on such an important issue. Autism is a lifetime medical disorder which will effect every aspect of that patient and family's life. It would be effective to lessen the disorder's impact on fanances and help the family more focus on treatment and progression of learning. Some family's without fanancial assistance may currently not be able to fully take advvantage of available resources, but will be given the chance in the future with this bill. Studies have shown that using multiple for of therapy and teaching for some level on the Autism spectrum. If necessary there could be requirements set in place for family's to recieve the extra mandated services. That way spending would not be completely out of control. If their children meet that level on the spectrum, than progression of learning would be likely, and there child could recieve those important services available.
ReplyDeleteWe agree that this bill would be very benefical to these familes due to the high expense they pay medically to treat their children. Do insurance companies not pay anything for children with autism?
ReplyDeleteWe think that your action plan would really help promote this bill. In order to gain support it would be important for the public to be aware of the expenses families with autistic children pay out of their pocket. Also for them to understand the disease itself so the public can spread awareness and help others realize how serious this disorder is.
In regards to the question, "Do insurance companies not pay anything for children with autism?"
ReplyDeleteSome insurance companies cover some treatments and therapies that those with autism may need. It also depends on each state. Different states also set different regulations on certain mental illnesses that insurance must cover. "Sixteen states have insurance laws relating to autism coverage, including 10 that require coverage for autism through their laws mandating coverage for mental illness" (http://www.cga.ct.gov/2006/rpt/2006-R-0793.htm)
Another factor applies to how extensive the coverage of your insurance plan is. Many insurance plans have exclusions that may not cover all therapies or treatments, depending on the cost of premiums.